The focal point of this rule is not the statement that all relevant evidence is admissible and irrelevant evidence is inadmissible, but rather that the many exceptions to this general statement are recognized and left undisturbed. Thus, for example, relevant evidence may be excluded to assure the continued recognition of a defendant's constitutional rights in a criminal action (such as Miranda); to further the socially desirable policies underlying the privileges of Article V of these rules; or to avoid undue delay, prejudice, or confusion of the issues (Rule 403).

Rule 402 was amended, effective March 1, 2014, in response to the December 1, 2011, revision of the Federal Rules of Evidence. The language and organization of the rule were changed to make the rule more easily understood and to make style and terminology consistent throughout the rules. There is no intent to change any result in any ruling on evidence admissibility.